Slowing Down at 34 Weeks Pregnant

BABY DEVELOPMENT

One of the many miracles of pregnancy is that your body – and the baby inside it – seems to know exactly what it needs to do. At this time, your little one starts to naturally move into birthing position as your pelvis begins to widen. But your baby won’t be completely in place until a few days or even hours before your childbirth contractions begin. 

YOUR BODY

Does your baby feel heavier than usual? That’s probably from the pressure that your broadening pelvis is exerting on the inner parts of your body. Just imagine that everything’s stretching down there! It can feel highly uncomfortable and cause a strain on your tummy, back, and groin area. This pain is normal, but anytime it gets too much, it’s always best to consult with your doctor.

In fact, during these last few weeks before birth, it’s a good idea to stay near your doctor or your hospital. You never know when your little darling will suddenly lose patience and arrive unannounced! If you work, one of the benefits you can enjoy is paid maternity leave. Right now, maternity leaves in the country cover 60 days. Use this precious time to recover from the delivery and care for yourself and your baby.

NUTRITION

Carbohydrates have a bad reputation among dieters, but they’re your body’s main source of energy, and are therefore a non-negotiable during your pregnancy. Start your day off with a good breakfast of bread and your favorite spread, or cereal topped with fruit, plus fresh fruit juice and dairy products. When choosing your carbs, it’s best to go for the more “complex” variety – think whole grains, vegetables, and beans. “Complex” just means that they’re a bit harder to break down, so they can provide you with stable energy throughout the day instead of in one big burst. Save the simple carbs, i.e. sweets such as cakes and chocolate, as small, occasional treats. Sudden sugar spikes aren’t good for your pancreas, the organ in your body that’s responsible for managing your blood sugar levels.

TIPS

If you’ve been feeling like you can’t catch your breath at times, rest assured that you are not alone. It’s a common side effect of pregnancy in the third trimester. That’s because the growing baby inside of you now takes up a lot more room and is likely pushing against your lungs and diaphragm. The result? A normal sense of breathlessness. This feeling will disappear naturally once your baby moves down a little in preparation for the big exit. In the meantime, whenever you feel short of breath, shift positions until you find one that allows your lungs to expand properly. Remember that both you and your baby should always have a steady supply of life-giving oxygen.

All set for Week 35? Read on to see what happens next!